1905 W. Pearl St. Suite 105 Granbury, Texas 76048
Phone: 817-573-6485
Cornerstone Christian Academy
2016-2017
ATHLETE’S HANDBOOK
CCA Athletic Mission Statement
Glorifying God by pursing excellence as a Christ-centered athlete.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,
as working for the Lord and not for men”
Colossians 2:23
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
II.
III.
Introduction
Cornerstone Philosophy
Athletics, Mission Statement, Objectives, Expected Results
IV.
Athletic Philosophy
A.
General
B.
Definitions
C.
Purposes
D.
Goals
E.
Objectives
F.
What Does It Take To Be An Athlete
V.
Eligibility
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
General
Academics
Citizenship And Code Of Conduct
Attendance.
Personal Appearance
Physical Examinations
Practice And Contests
Quitting a Sport
Dismissal from a Sport
Team Events
Athletic P.E. Credit for Sports
VI.
Financial Responsibility
A.
General
B.
Fees And Refunds
C.
Equipment
D.
Injury Costs
VII.
Awards
A.
B.
C.
D.
VIII.
General
Lettering
League
Hazing
Attachments
Sports Participation Permission Slip
Student Athlete Covenant of Excellence
Student Athlete Code of Ethics
Parent Code of Ethics
Parent and Student Pledge
Student Accident Insurance Information
Driver Statement
Parent Driver Registration Form
Language on Steroids
Travel Consent/Medical Release of Liability
Student Athlete Physical Form
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ATHLETIC HANDBOOK
ATHELETIC DEPARTMANET DESIRES TO:
LEAD students and their families to follow Jesus Christ in all aspects of their lives!
Our Athletic Department desires to CHALLENGE every believer to obey God’s Word for
growth in Godly wisdom and Christ-like character.
EMPOWER believers by the Holy Spirit to change the
world by using their God-given gifts and talents.
CCA EXPECTED RESULTS:
Athletes will demonstrate Christ-centered qualities including but not limited to:
DISCERNMENT, GOOD- CHARACTER,
STEWARDSHIP, SERVICE TO ONE ANOTHER
EXCELLENT SPORTSMANSHIP AND HUMILITY
The foundation for any program in the Christian school must be the Word of God. Therefore, any
program that exists in the Christian school must reflect the integration of Biblical principles into that
program. Since the athletic program is one of the most visible programs in the Christian school, it is
paramount that it reflects Biblical principles. The ultimate goal of the athletic program in the Christian
school is synonymous with the Christian walk; that being, “to be conformed in the image of Jesus
Christ.” (Romans 8:20) Participation in athletics is a privilege, not a right. The athlete must earn this
privilege through dedication, desire and discipline. Without the pursuit of those, the athlete can in no
way do justice to himself or the school. The athlete must discipline himself to be a Christian, a good
citizen and student in order to achieve athletic excellence. The faculty and staff have the mindset that
tradition of winning and good sportsmanship is established and maintained upon these principles. In
pursuit of athletic achievement and the character training of young people, the following “Athletic
Handbook” has been prepared for you and your family. Please read through it completely so that you
understand all of the policies and procedures set forth concerning the Crusader Athletic program.
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ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY
A.
GENERAL
Participation on an athletic team is a privilege extended to meet the interests of our student athletes.
Playing on a team is a gift! Students must maintain acceptable academic standards and conduct within
the classroom to gain the privilege of playing for CCA.
B.
C.
D.
DEFINITION
1.
Athletics is defined as learning game rules and strategies, developing skills and testing those
abilities against others of relatively the same age group. The athletic program of Cornerstone
Christian Academy is an integral part of the total education process.
2.
Our athletic department strives to meet our overall goal regarding our CCA mission statement
to provide a Christ centered atmosphere to grow the student spiritually, socially, emotionally,
academically and physically for all that God desires for them. Athletics provides a great avenue
to grow in all those areas.
PURPOSES
1.
Total Fitness - The athletic program at CCA is dedicated to the advancement of each student’s
total fitness; to promote optimal growth and development in each individual. Focus of the
whole student is a major purpose in what we do through our athletic programming.
2.
Physical Fitness - Emphasis is placed on the development of a foundation of physical fitness,
including strength, endurance, flexibility, quickness, etc.
3.
Skill Development - Upon the foundation of physical fitness, advanced skills are developed
through vigorous practices, drills, scrimmages and other activities for successful participation
in athletics.
GOALS
1.
Formation of a Christ-like character, developed with the attitude of glorifying God by the way
the athlete practices and competes, is the priority goal. Every created being is glorifying to God
from the least to the greatest. Each athlete decides by his/her behavior to whom the glory will
go.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for
men.” Colossians 3:23
2. The goal of an athlete and coach alike is to “win” the game. But for the Christian this entails far
more than just the score. The testimonies of every coach and every athlete involved in the game,
speaks to the success or failure of that individual’s effort to glorify God by his/her behavior and
attitude regardless of the final score. Winning is not the most important thing, but making the
effort to win as Christ would win, is! The Christian athlete’s goal is to glorify God by performing
as a member of a team and by giving 100% to become the best possible athlete he/she can be.
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E.
F.
OBJECTIVES
1.
To develop an understanding of priorities, God first, family second, academics third, athletic
commitment and social activities fourth.
2.
To provide an opportunity for the release of physical and emotional tension. To gain new
modes of self-expression and self-confidence.
3.
To teach on understanding of the rules, techniques and strategies of the various games and
activities so that a maximum of enjoyment and benefit may be derived from participation
in these activities.
4.
To develop acceptable social standards, appreciation and attitudes, to afford opportunities for
exercising such desirable social traits as leadership, fellowship and cooperation, and to stress
the development of a strong positive set of moral attitudes and such character traits as fair
play, courtesy, honesty, self-control, loyalty, truthfulness and good sportsmanship.
5.
To afford opportunities for development of worthwhile physical recreational skills for immediate
benefit and for overall value.
6.
To develop the ability, through instruction in safety skills, to use the body skillfully in a variety of
situations for the protection of self and others.
7.
To develop proper habits, attitudes and ideals toward health and healthful living in the individual
and strive to better the health of the individual by every means available.
8.
To eliminate remedial deficiencies in a physical education situation and develop maximum
physical fitness.
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE AN ATHLETE?
1.
Are you coachable? Can you take positive criticism? Will you always do your best to improve
your performance?
2.
Are you willing to practice? Not just reporting and putting in the necessary time but working
every day with the same zeal, speed, and determination you use during a game?
4.
Are you willing to make sacrifices? Conditioning to play is not fun. It is not easy. Training is
demanding; the responsibility is heavy. It is rough and includes personal denials in order to
remain in tip-top condition, but it has its rewards. The sense of accomplishment you
experience will be well worth the personal sacrifice.
5.
Do you have a strong desire to improve? Are you willing to practice the things you cannot do
three times longer than the things you can do? Are you willing, on your own, to put in long
grinding hours, concentrating on a skill until you perfect it? Are you eager to work diligently on
your skills so that they eventually become your strongest assets?
6.
Do you have the ability to think under fire? Can you concentrate on the work to be
accomplished at the moment? Can you shut out from your mind a previous failure, success,
rule infraction, or personal insult in order to give undivided attention to the offensive and
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defensive maneuver in the here and now? Games are not won by yesterday’s score, but by
what is happening now, at this moment. Good athletes play every play up to the hilt, never
depending on past success.
7.
Are you willing to love your opponent even in the midst of competition? Do you have positive
personal feelings towards your opponents? Do you respect and appreciate his/her God given
talents and abilities?
8.
Will you compete as hard as you can in accordance with the rules, to bring out the best in
yourself and your opponent? Our experiences have taught us that the moment a player
becomes negative toward his/her opponent, he/she plays only to release grievances and ceases
to play in a manner pleasing to Christ.
9.
Are you loyal and committed to your school, team, and coach? Your school is only as good as
you make it. Your coach is a genuine employee of your school given the responsibility of
coaching, not his/her team, but your team. Are you willing to work toward that spirit of
oneness so that everyone possesses the feeling of belonging through their contributions?
10.
11.
Are you willing to study just as hard as before coming out for the team? Academics come
before athletics. This may mean you will need to rearrange your schedule. If practice will
consume two hours of your day then you must draw time not from your scholastic program but
from hours previously devoted to personal pursuits. If you must eliminate something from your
schedule it must not be study time. First things come first, and your academic growth is of
paramount importance.
Will you strive daily to improve your muscular coordination and speed? Daily drills and practice
will tend to speed up your reaction time. Speed and coordination are necessary ingredients in a
winning combination. Only through hard work can improvement here be realized. Those of
you who lack these two physical qualities can find a place on the team by improving in other
areas.
ELIGIBILITY
A.
GENERAL
All rules of Cornerstone Christian Academy are in addition to and not in place of any TCAF/CSAF rules
or rules in this handbook. All school rules pertain to CCA athletes.
B.
ACADEMICS
1.
Athletes must meet TCAF/CSAF and CCA academic requirements to participate in athletics.
2.
Initial eligibility consists of a 2.0 grade point average during the previous grading period. This
includes all incoming 7th – 12th graders and all transfer students.
3.
During the sport season, a student must be successfully progressing toward graduation
requirements and maintain a grade point average of 2.0 (C) as set forth by the School Board.
4.
A student athlete who does not maintain a 2.0 GPA will be declared ineligible at that time.
a) A student is allowed to practice with the team at the discretion of the principal and Athletic
Director.
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b) An ineligible student may not participate in a game or accompany the team to out of
town games.
c) Eligibility will be determined at one week intervals. If at the end of the 1 week interval, an
ineligible student achieves a 2.0 GPA, and only one “F”, he/she will be declared eligible.
d) A student enrolled in a PE class, must dress out and participate on game days.
e) If a student is ineligible for a long period of time, the student may be required to attend
study hall instead of participating in practice.
f) If a student is ineligible for an entire season, it will be the discretion of the principal and
athletic director whether he/she is allowed to participate in another sport.
C.
CITIZENSHIP AND CODE OF CONDUCT
1.
The Athletic Code of Conduct is intended to insure and promote the highest ideals in the
athletic program and to assist students in achieving and maintaining Christian moral and social
virtues. This code of conduct is to serve as a statement of policy for athletes in the
interscholastic program.
2.
Team morale and unity is the most important factor. Athletes, through their attitude and
behavior, should always strive to foster these goals. An athlete must attend all team functions.
3.
Loyalty to the school, team and coaches is paramount. An athlete must be completely loyal to
the entire program to be a part of it.
4.
Be respectful to all persons, related or unrelated to the school. Athletes will conduct
themselves as ladies and gentlemen at all times, even during the most trying of game
situations.
5.
During team prayer and devotions, all athletes are expected to respectfully respond in a proper
manner. Remember you are a Royal!!!
6.
Maintain good scholarship, citizenship and attendance records.
7.
Dress for success. Keep your hair neat and trim at all times. Always be clean shaven. Dress
Code for games is as follows:
All Sports –
 Home games: Appropriate travel gear.
 Away games: Appropriate travel gear.
 Before/After away games: Athletes may wear their jersey and uniform pants or warmups and/or team shirts. No jeans or free dress attire will be allowed.
 Failure to comply will result in disciplinary measures.
 A coach may require other attire on game days after approval from the Athletic Director.
8.
Develop and maintain strong personal devotional habits in order to provide a positive
testimony in the classroom and on the court or field.
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D.
9.
Keep parents informed regarding practice and game days and any changes in schedules.
10.
If any student whose habits and/or conduct during the season, both in and out of school is such
to make him/her unworthy to represent the ideals and principles of CCA, that student may be
declared ineligible to participate.
11.
Student athletes that are suspended may not attend any school function or activity (practice,
game, party, field trip, etc.) until the day following the suspension(s).
ATTENDANCE
1.
In order to participate in an athletic practice/contest on a school day, the athlete must be
officially be included in school attendance records for four (4) entire class periods of his/her
schedule. The Athletic Director may waive this requirement only under extenuating
circumstances. If an athlete does not attend school, he/she may not attend practice and/or
a game that day without permission from the Athletic Director.
2.
Automatic excused absences would include illness, bereavement and school field trips. The
athlete is responsible for notifying the coach in advance. An unexcused missed practice or
game may result in disciplinary action.
3.
Team uniforms are to be worn only for Cornerstone Christian Academy games or meets.
Uniforms should never be worn to practice.
4.
An athlete will not be permitted to join a team after the initial tryout period. Of course,
extenuating circumstance such as transfer, injury, and illness may be exceptions.
5.
Transportation to and from contests is generally provided by the school. Athletes may be
released to their parents or guardians by the coach before or after the contest, provided
previous arrangements have been made. The school office must be notified by a parent, 24
hours prior to any transportation changes involving school vehicles/bus. Students may not
drive other students to practices and/or games. Any student wishing to go home with another
parent may only do so with written permission from his/her parent 24 hours prior to the event.
(The written note must be turned in to Athletic Director or Assistant) not coaches.
6.
At times, parents use the potential of withholding athletics as a disciplinary measure. Parents
are encouraged to work with the coach to avoid removing their son/daughter from the team
once a commitment has been made to a team. If an athlete decides to quit a team, a letter
must be written to the Athletic Director and other consequences will be adhered to regarding
participation in other sports.
7.
Attendance at the Athletic Awards Ceremonies- Athletic involvement is a great opportunity for
students at CCA. Participation as a team member presumes that the athlete is willing to take
on any responsibilities involved with that commitment. Being present at all team activities is a
vital way of expressing unity, spirit, and cooperation. The awards ceremony culminates these
team activities. It is perhaps even more vital than certain practice sessions or games in that it
reflects the overall summary of the season. Athletes not present at their respective awards
ceremony are expressing disinterest, which shows an attitude in conflict with the team
participation philosophy expected by the school. Athletes not present at Awards ceremonies
will not receive any award earned, including Athletic Letter. Excusable situations will be
evaluated and determined by the Athletic Director.
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8.
E.
F.
PERSONAL APPEARANCE
1.
An athlete is constantly in the eyes of the public. He/she is a representative of the school and is
considered to be in a position of leadership. The athlete’s personal appearance not only
reflects his/her attitude, but also those of whom he/she represents. Hygiene must be
supportive to the athlete’s well being while participating in athletic competition. Athletes will
be required to abide by the CCA dress code. Lack of adherence to the above rules may result in
the athlete to be held out of practices or games. Failure to comply after further notification
may result in removal from the team and/or removal from athletics by the Athletic Director or
principal.
2.
Practice attire shall consist of standard physical education clothing or clothing appropriate for a
particular sport, and must be approved by the Athletic Director. An athlete not in dress code
will be sent home from practice. Game uniforms must not be worn to practice.
3.
Every member of an athletic team, while traveling to and from athletic events as a
representative of Cornerstone Christian Academy must dress as cleanly and neatly as possible.
All athletes must follow CCA dress code; no exceptions. Failure to do so may result in
suspension from the team by the Athletic Director.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS
1.
G.
If an athlete has received a detention, it must be served on one of the dates noted on the
detention slip. An athlete is not exempt from this policy due to his/her practice schedule. If the
athlete has a game on either of the dates specified, he/she must see the principal to make
arrangements to serve the detention
All athletes will be required to have a physical examination by a licensed physician, and can be
done at CCA each summer. This form must be on file PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF PRACTICE
for each respective season. It is not necessary for a new physical form to be completed for
each sport unless an injury requires a doctor’s release for an upcoming sport. A physical is
required for each year of athletic participation. These forms will be kept on file in the athletic
office.
PRACTICE AND CONTESTS
1.
Be dressed and ready for practice on time, every day. There is no substitute for industriousness
and enthusiasm.
2.
Attend every practice session unless excused by the coach. Only leave the practice facility
when permission is given. Dedication comes from inside the athlete.
3.
Work hard to improve yourself without having to be forced. Be serious. Have fun without
clowning. Condition comes from hard work during practice and proper mental and moral
conduct. Poise, confidence and self-control come from being prepared.
4.
Earn the respect of others and respect others. Expect the best from your teammates and give
your best at all times.
5.
Move quickly to get in position to start a new drill. Do things the way you have been told.
Correct habits are formed only through continued repetition of the perfect model.
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H.
6.
When group activity is stopped to correct one individual, pay close attention in order that you
will not require the same correction.
7.
Keep a neat practice appearance with shirt tails in, socks pulled up and finger-nails short. Take
good care of your equipment. Keep your locker neat and orderly at all times. Misuse of athletic
equipment will not be tolerated, and may result in disciplinary action being taken.
8.
Pray for your teammates, opponents, and your coach daily.
QUITTING A SPORT
1.
Whenever a student chooses to quit a team, he/she forfeits the right to participate in any sport
the next season, below are the guidelines:


I.

If an athlete quits a spring sport, he/she is not eligible to participate in any sport during
the fall season for the next school year. He/she may play that sport in subsequent
years.

If an athlete quits a sport, a written letter with details of the decision must be submitted
to the Athletic Director with a parent signature within two (2) days.

Any final decisions regarding participation in another sport will be determined by the
Athletic Director;

The Athletic Director is always available to talk to an athlete about any concerns he/she
may be having regarding a team.
DISMISSAL FROM A SPORT
1.
J.
If an athlete quits a fall sport, he/she is not eligible to participate in any sport during the
winter season.
If an athlete quits a winter sport, he/she is not eligible to participate in any sport during
the spring season.
Whenever a student is asked by the coach to leave a sport, the following will be in effect.
 The coach will give a report to the Athletic Director explaining the circumstances of the
student being dismissed from the team.
 The student and/or parent may request a meeting to discuss the dismissal with the
coach and the Athletic Director.
 The student will be eligible to play in that sport in the subsequent year.
 The dismissal will not affect the student’s eligibility for any other sport at any time,
although there is no guarantee given.
TEAM EVENTS
1.
All team events (parties, etc.) need to be submitted in writing to the Athletic Director for
approval. Appropriate forms are available in the office. The proposal will include any costs,
times, transportation, and permission slips.
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K.
ATHLETIC PHYSICAL EDUCATION CREDIT FOR SPORTS



one semester credit for participation in two high school level team sports (can be
counted from multiple years).
one year credit for participation in four high school level team sports (can be counted
from multiple years)
completion of a college level physical education course (only if class is needed for
graduation requirements)
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
A.
GENERAL
It shall be the responsibility of the parent(s) or guardian(s) to keep current on their accounts regarding
tuition and all fees. Failure to meet this responsibility may cause the student to be ineligible for
practice and/or games.
B.
FEES AND REFUNDS
Athletic fees are due before the first team game or practice after the try-out period. Refunds will be
issued if a student has to be removed from team participation up to the first non-league game.
Refunds will not be issued after this time.
C.
EQUIPMENT
All athletes will be required to replace lost or purposefully damaged equipment and/or facilities by
payment to CCA. All grades and transcripts WILL BE HELD until payment is received. The Coach
will issue all gear to the athletes and keep an accurate up-to-date file on each athlete. The gear will be
passed out to the athletes on dates to be announced before the first practice and will be expected to
be returned at the end of the season. Uniforms must be returned clean and in good condition. All
jerseys that athletes want to purchase MUST be turned in to the Athletic Department prior to
purchase. The Athletic Department will give the item to the athlete/parent when purchased.
D.
INJURY COSTS
CCA assumes no financial responsibility for injuries occurring to athletes, outside of normal school
coverage, nor for ambulance or transportation costs. It is the parent’s responsibility to have
medical/insurance coverage. A medical form must be turned in prior to practice starting.
AWARDS
A.
GENERAL
1.
All athletes will receive a certificate for each sport participated in unless they quit or were
dismissed from the team.
2.
To receive an individual award from the school, an athlete must have been eligible for 75% of
the team’s contests, participate in team practice, and will be decided by other factors to be
determined by the Coach/Athletic Director.
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3.
B.
To receive a championship patch, a player must suit up to play in 80% of League Contests.
LETTERING
1.
An athlete is entitled to receive, without charge, one varsity athletic letter per sport while
attending high school.
2.
Subsequent letters are represented by emblems of the sports in which they earned. These
emblems are for attachment on the letter.
3.
Additional emblems may be purchased or obtained from the Athletic Director upon verification
of letter requirements being fulfilled.
4.
Letter requirements for football, volleyball, cheer, basketball, soccer, cross country, track,
baseball, softball and golf shall be satisfied with the fulfillment of all of the following criteria
and will be determined by the coach and Athletic Director:





C.
the athlete suits up to play in 80% of the games and the coach believes the athlete
made a major contribution to the team.
the athlete has maintained his/her sports eligibility 80% of the season.
the athlete has demonstrated a positive attitude and sportsmanship.
the athlete has regularly attended meetings, games, and practices.
the athlete must attend the Awards Ceremony to receive his/her award. (case by case)
5.
Any athlete hurt in any outside extracurricular activities other than their sport, (i.e.-motorcycle
riding, snowboarding, skiing, etc.) and misses 50% of games will not be able to receive their
team award and/or their letter.
6.
Junior Varsity team members will receive certificates of participation, individual awards and
special recognition awards, but not Letter awards.
7.
Junior High team members will receive certificates of participation, individual awards, special
recognition awards, but not Letter awards. Awards for Male and Female Athlete of the Year
will also be given.
LEAGUE
1.
Athletes are nominated by the coach and approved by the Athletic Director, and voted onto a
first or second all-league team by coaches in the league. One athlete in the league is selected
as most valuable player, boy/girl. All league patches and certificates are issued to these
athletes at the Athletic Awards Ceremony.
HAZING
1.
Definition - Hazing includes any method of initiating or reinitiating into a student organization,
or any pastime or amusement engaged in with respect to such an organization, which causes or
is likely to cause, bodily danger, bodily harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in
physical or mental harm.
2.
CCA has zero tolerance for hazing. Hazing will not be ignored and/or overlooked because of
“tradition”. Hazing exists because parents, teachers and students permit it to exist. Types of
hazing are subtle hazing, harassment hazing and violent hazing. Examples are; harassment,
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abuse, or humiliation and requirements to perform meaningless tasks.
3.
Participation – No student or other person in attendance at CCA shall conspire to engage in
hazing, participate in hazing, or commit any act that causes or is likely to cause bodily danger,
physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to any
fellow student or person attending the institution.
4.
Disciplinary Action - Hazing is illegal in Texas and the ramifications are serious. According
to school policy, disciplinary action, suspension or expulsion will result for hazing to any
student(s) involved. After a thorough investigation has been conducted, and determination
that the coach was aware that hazing was taking place, suspension and/or termination of said
coach may result.
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